Xmas Live

This live set of Christmas favorite by New Age/Baroque and roll favorites Mannheim Steamroller is a zesty combination of picks from the group's three bestselling Christmas discs, all giftwrapped and waiting under the tree. While it's in the comfort of the studio that Davis and company work most of their magic, combining recorders, keyboards and orchestra into a highly stylized and unique sound, the live performance captured herein shows that on its best nights the Steamroller can rise above the studio to really touch the audience. It helps that the orchestra is handpicked, rather than the pickup group Davis and company often employ to uneven results when touring. The first Mannheim Christmas disc was a revelation, the second was perhaps better though without the benefit of being revolutionary, and the third was adequate. This fourth is probably the best of the bunch. ~ Ross Boissoneau, All Music Guide